Desloge Tower May Remain Despite New Hospital

The Desloge Hospital Tower in St. Louis (Landmarks Association of St. Louis photo)

For a while it seemed the iconic Desloge Tower and its chapel might not survive the new hospital coming to St. Louis University. It looked like it might get torn down.

That may be changing.

Recently, SSM announced plans that currently include keeping the landmark, something many city residents have called for due to its history and architecture. The Desloge Tower would simply be re-purposed for medical offices.

Andrew Weil, Executive Director of Landmarks Association of St. Louis, says it’s not a sure thing the building will remain. But he’s happy with where things stand right now.

“I’m absolutely thrilled,” Weil said. “I’m so excited that they saw the opportunity that the building represented and that they recognized what an important cultural and architectural legacy it is for all of St. Louis and for St. Louis University at large.

“It’s very useful. It’s a useful, beautiful building in a great location. Please let’s find something we can do with this rather than turning it into a parking lot which happens all too often in this city.”

Weil says the time frame from SSM on a final decision is unknown.

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